HOW TO ESCAPE A FIRE
Smoke kills. Smoking kills too but that is not what I mean. Think, black fumes that come from a fire kill you before the flames. We’ve read that but if you need a refresher, click here. Go on, we’ll wait.
Back? Let’s continue then. You should also know that no matter how much you prepare, or try to prevent fires, Murphy comes knocking on your door. When that happens, get out.
HOW TO ESCAPE A FIRE
Smoke kills. Smoking kills too but that is not what I mean. Think, black fumes that come from a fire kill you before the flames. We’ve read that but if you need a refresher, click here. Go on, we’ll wait.
Back? Let’s continue then. You should also know that no matter how much you prepare, or try to prevent fires, Murphy comes knocking on your door. When that happens, get out.
There is a rule of thumb here. If you cannot get a fire under control within 30 seconds, get out. Because the fire will spread and it will feed itself. From then on, you have only a minute, maybe even less, to get out and stay out. Call the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) on 999 as soon as possible.
However, if you find yourself in a smoke fill house, here are five things you should should do:
| 1 |
Close all access to slow the spread of fire |
| 2 |
Always have your mobile phone with you |
| 3 |
Feel all door with the back of your hand before opening. DO NOT OPEN IF THE DOOR IS HOT. If the door is cool to the touch, open the door slowly. |
| 4 |
If you are trapped, seal all openings with a wet cloth to prevent smoke from seeping through. |
| 5 |
Always make your way to the ground floor and not the top. Fire burns upwards. |
And one last thing to remember:
Lower yourself to the ground and crawl to your exit. Since smoke is light and rises to the ceiling, the floor will provide precious clear air to breathe.
I hope you don’t find yourself in a fiery situation. If you do, I hope these tips from BOMBA helps you.
If you have experience a escaping a fire before, do write and share your story. We’d love to learn from you.
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